French Legion of Honor medal
The success of Charles Lindbergh’s transatlantic flight resulted in immediate worldwide fame and an influx of gifts from around the globe. The very first one he received came from French president Gaston Doumergue, who presented him with the French Legion of Honor medal on May 23, 1927. The award is the highest given in France and acknowledges bravery or civic achievement. Lindbergh received many more medals in the days, weeks, and years following his famous flight, but this first medal remains one of the most significant in the collection.
Object Title and Accession Number
French Legion of Honor medal presented to Charles Lindbergh. Made by Société Arthus Bertrand, 1927. 1927-044-0075.
An ornate medal with a star design and green wreath, attached to a red ribbon, displayed inside a blue velvet and satin-lined open box labeled “Lindbergh Collection.”
Close up view of the medal featuring a silver profile of a grecian woman, surrounded by a green laurel wreath, and five-pointed white stars. It hangs from a red ribbon.